IGF 2024

The Internet Commons Forum (ICF) has been jointly organised by CTS-FGV, APC, and Free2Air, since 2019. The ICF aims at gathering thinkers and doers that are developing ideas and solutions for a less concentrated and more just Internet. See http://www.intcomforum.org/ The Internet Commons Forum 2024 will explore the AI Commons paradigm. The concept of the AI Commons represents a shared space where resources, knowledge, and tools related to artificial intelligence (AI) are accessible to and usable by all stakeholders. This session will delve into existing initiatives, policies, and implementation strategies aimed at fostering collaboration, innovation, and equitable access in the AI ecosystem. The debate will have four components. First, panellists will explore the concept of AI Commons, analysing what constitutes the AI Commons, and why is it instrumental for the advancement of AI technologies. Second, they will showcase exemplary initiatives, from open-source AI libraries to collaborative research projects, embodying the principles of the AI Commons, discussing their objectives, impact, and lessons learned in building and sustaining collaborative AI ecosystems. Third, they will discuss the extent to which existing policy frameworks and governance models can foster effective implementation of the AI Commons. Despite its potential benefits, establishing and maintaining the AI Commons presents various challenges, including issues related to data governance, intellectual property rights, and interoperability. These dimensions are addressed by multiple legal framework and panellists will debate the extent to which such frameworks may facilitate or hinder the emergence of AI commons. Lastly, panellists will discuss the how to foster active engagement from diverse stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society organizations, to build AI Commons requires. Panellists will discuss strategies for fostering inclusive participation, promoting knowledge sharing, and empowering communities to contribute to the AI Commons.
To facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees, we will leverage a hybrid event platform that provides real-time communication channels. For the onsite attendees, we will project the virtual attendees and their questions/comments onto the screen to ensure that both groups can engage with each other. To participate you can use the hashtags #ICF2024 and #AIcommons on social media. The session will be designed with both online and onsite participants in mind. The session will be structured with interactive segments to engage all attendees, such as Q&As and debates to cater both online and onsite participants.